Latest news with #ghostgraphics
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Missouri Troopers expanding use of ‘Ghost Graphic' cars before July 4th
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Missouri State Troopers are preparing to roll out additional 'ghost graphic' vehicles just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend. As News-Press NOW reported last month, the reflective graphics on these patrol cars allow troopers to discreetly monitor aggressive or reckless driving on the roadways. Officers have deployed these vehicles on a rolling basis ahead of major holidays in the past. Low-profile vehicles, that's exactly what these are, and they're a necessary enforcement tool for us," said Sgt. Shane Hux of the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H. Across Missouri, 10 vehicles with ghost graphics were deployed and put into service ahead of the Memorial Day weekend. According to MSHP, 10 additional vehicles will go into service before the Fourth of July weekend. Nine have already been deployed to the nine patrol troops across the state, and the remaining vehicles will be assigned to areas experiencing high numbers of complaints about reckless driving and crashes. "We have one assigned for Troop H, to Andrew and Buchanan counties," said Sgt. Shane Hux. "That's where we're seeing a high influx of traffic as well as an increase in traffic crashes." State troopers say they frequently witness drivers speeding past while distracted by their phones. The low-visibility vehicles have been helping troopers catch violators more effectively. "It gives an officer the opportunity to witness other violations because the public becomes accustomed to our standard patrol vehicles," Hux said. "For example, when our first Dodge Chargers came out, they had very distinctive rear tail lights. So at night, people quickly learned to recognize them. It's beneficial for us to mix things up for the motoring public." While some residents have mixed opinions about the addition of these vehicles, MSHP emphasizes that the goal is to protect public safety. "More than 1,000 people lose their lives every year in Missouri due to motor vehicle crashes," Hux said. "If these vehicles can reduce that number even slightly, that's a good sign. MSHP Troop H expects to have another 'ghost graphic' vehicle added to the area by the Fourth of July.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Can a Missouri officer in an unmarked car pull you over? Here's what state law says
Usually unassuming cars on Missouri highways are just that: unassuming. But sometimes they turn on sirens and flashing lights and pull you over. In Missouri, law enforcement is allowed to use unmarked cars to pull over drivers. This means police don't have to display bold decals to pursue you. Turning on red or blue flashing lights or a siren is enough, according to state law. The Missouri State Highway Patrol said in a May Facebook post that less-visible vehicles allow officers 'help us monitor aggressive & dangerous driving more effectively.' In this post they announced the installation of barely visible 'ghost graphics' on some vehicles, which are invisible in daylight. Thousands of Facebook commenters criticized the graphics, one saying, 'Trying to be as hidden as possible from the public is definitely a unique way of protecting and serving,' while another wrote, 'Your cars should all be high-vis so it is easy to locate you in case of emergency.' While both Missouri and Kansas allow officers in unmarked vehicles to enforce traffic laws, some states like California, New Mexico and Idaho prohibit the practice. When the highway patrol is making their patrol cars blend in, the Kansas City Police Department's vehicles will soon stand out. Starting July 1, some marked KCPD vehicles will now have their blue roof lights steadily on, after a city council vote. The lights are supposed to act as a deterrent and make it easier for residents to flag down officers. Jake Becchina, a KCPD spokesperson, offered these tips on what to do if you're pursued by an unfamiliar vehicle in Kansas City: Pull over to the nearest well-lit spot. KCPD vehicles have sirens and red and blue lights. KCPD officers are 'dressed in police uniform or other clearly marked as police.' If you're concerned, verify by calling 911 or KCPD's nonemergency number, 816-234-5111. Have more questions about traffic laws in Missouri? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@
